Sitges: what to see, what to do and where to stay
Sea, art and festivals in a seaside town about 35 kilometres from Barcelona. A guide to making the most of your stay.
Why people fall for Sitges
Sitges has something rare: the feel of a fishing village and the cultural life of a city. Its white streets run down to the sea, the church of Sant Bartomeu i Santa Tecla stands above the beach, and the promenade is made for strolling at any hour.
It is a year-round destination. Summer is all about the beaches, spring and autumn bring mild weather for walks and terrace lunches, and the festival calendar never stops.
Things to do in Sitges
The beaches
More than a dozen along the coast, from La Ribera and La Fragata by the centre to quieter coves towards Garraf.
The old town
Whitewashed lanes, flower-filled balconies and small shops climbing up to the church headland.
Cau Ferrat and Maricel
Two seafront museums holding the legacy of Santiago Rusiñol, Catalan Modernisme and art collections that tell the town's story.
The promenade
Kilometres of seafront walk with beach bars, terraces and restaurants serving fish and rice dishes.
Garraf Natural Park
Walking and cycling routes through limestone hills with Mediterranean views, minutes from the coast.
Penedès wines
Wine and cava cellars a short drive away, ideal for a visit and tasting.
Festivals and events all year
Carnival, in February or March, one of the liveliest in Catalonia, with parades and a party atmosphere across town.
Corpus Christi, when the streets are carpeted with flowers.
Festa Major of Sant Bartomeu, in late August, with fireworks, traditional dances and correfocs.
Sitges International Fantastic Film Festival of Catalonia, every October, a world reference for genre cinema.
Where to stay in Sitges: villas with space and privacy
Central Sitges has hotels and apartments, but for families and groups a villa is often the better choice. A whole house means being together, enjoying your own pool and sleeping in peace, with the beach a few minutes away.
Our guide to renting a villa in Sitges covers the best areas and what to check before booking.